BMW 7 Series vs BMW 5 Series

The 2026 BMW 5 Series embraced a Bauhaus-inspired design, characterized by geometric forms, clean lines, and minimalism. However, the details sometimes resulted in jarring juxtapositions, as seen in the 540i test car with the M Sport package. This package included expressive bumpers and blacked-out sections, creating a grinning, gaping front end. The interior, adorned with Copper and Grey Merino leather, offered a warm contrast to the otherwise businesslike cabin. The BMW Curved Display panel spanned half the dashboard, minimizing physical controls and enhancing the modern aesthetic. Ambient lighting added a sensational touch, with touch-sensing controls embedded into the lighting strips, reducing clutter.

In contrast, the 2027 BMW 7 Series underwent a more thorough aesthetic overhaul, addressing many styling issues of its predecessor. The front fascia was cleaned up, with less black trim around the grille and sharper edges. Despite the oversized grille, it was better defined, and the driving lights perched at the tops of the front fenders added a confident touch. The rear styling changes included vertical trim pieces and larger taillights, but the car still appeared ungainly due to its height. Inside, the 7 Series offered high-end materials, with options for carbon fiber and Alcantara for a sportier appearance. The focus was on rear-seat comfort, with abundant legroom and optional Executive Lounge specifications.

The 2026 BMW 5 Series, specifically the 540i xDrive, was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 375 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The eBoost 48-volt mild-hybrid system provided an additional 14 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed Sport automatic transmission and standard all-wheel-drive system ensured a smooth and swift driving experience. The M Sport package added firmer suspension and 21-inch wheels, enhancing the car's performance on winding roads. However, the 540i leaned more toward luxury, with light steering and some body motion even in Sport mode. The powertrain was relatively fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 28 mpg in combined driving.

The 2027 BMW 7 Series launched with rear-wheel drive 740 and all-wheel drive 740 xDrive specs, both powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six producing 394 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. The engine had 11 more horsepower than the 2026 model, thanks to a new turbo. BMW estimated a 0–60 mph time of less than five seconds, making it quicker than its predecessor. The 7 Series offered an engaging driving experience, with an active anti-roll system available on some models. However, the V8 option was not available for 2027, with BMW confirming the arrival of the 750e xDrive plug-in hybrid later in the year.

The 2026 BMW 5 Series offered comfortable front seats wrapped in supple leather, with heating and ventilation. However, the lack of padding on the sides of the center console was a minor comfort-related complaint. Rear seats were equally comfortable, with proper leg and back support, though longer-legged passengers might find the hard plastic on the front seatback panel uncomfortable. The trunk offered 18.4 cubic feet of cargo space, though the height was limited due to the mild-hybrid tech and compact spare tire underneath.

The 2027 BMW 7 Series prioritized rear-seat comfort, with abundant legroom and optional Executive Lounge specifications. The front seats offered heating, ventilation, and massaging functions, but finding a comfortable driving position was challenging. The new screen-infused dashboard didn't interfere with sightlines, and the steering wheel options were satisfying to use. The 7 Series had 19.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity, providing ample space for luggage.

The 2026 BMW 5 Series featured a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch configurable driver display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display. BMW Operating System 8.5 powered the technology, offering cloud connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The voice recognition system was capable, though it occasionally misinterpreted commands. The high-resolution surround-view camera system and parking sensors enhanced the driving experience.

The 2027 BMW 7 Series introduced a panoramic display running across the dashboard, replacing the conventional instrument cluster. The main touchscreen was 17.9 inches, with a 14.6-inch touchscreen for the front passenger. BMW's latest Operating System X maintained wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an AI-augmented voice recognition system. The Theater Screen, a 31.3-inch monitor for rear-seat passengers, was a standout feature, offering 8K resolution and streaming capabilities. The audio system included an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup, with an optional 36-speaker version.

The 2026 BMW 5 Series offered adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, creating an Assisted Driving system. The Driving Assistance Professional package added steering-related features and an emergency stop system. Highway Assistant, providing hands-free driving, was inactive in the test vehicle. The IIHS gave the 5 Series high marks, but it hadn't qualified for Top Safety Pick recognition at the time of publication.

The 2027 BMW 7 Series came standard with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. Symbiotic Drive aimed to blend these aids with the driver's inputs, minimizing unnecessary warnings. The Parking Assistance Package included a surround-view camera system and semi-automated parking. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of writing.